Working Mom … You Pulled What Out of that Purse?

It’s the big moment you’ve been waiting for. The CEO of the company you want to work for just spoke at a networking event. You’re about to cross her path, and can’t wait to meet her. Next thing you know, you’re in front of her. It’s natural, organic, not forced. She likes your ideas, she says, and would love to talk more. Then, the kill … she asks for your business card! Though you know you grabbed the big “mom” purse – you know, the one you take on play dates and field trips – instead of the cute “business” purse, you take comfort in knowing that you’ll definitely have business cards in there. But your short-lived euphoria turns to sinking dread.

You go in your purse for a business card, and instead pull out …. (take your pick):

Legos, Goldfish, Pampers’ baby wipes, anything half-eaten, crayons, kids’ meal coupons, an Octonauts action figure, American Girl doll clothes, bubble gum, pictures of your kids, pictures of you and your kids, a permission slip, or even lipstick . . . but no business card. You do have the days-old napkin you used to wipe ketchup off the car seat, though. And the crayon is red, so you’d be able to read her number and email …. Ah, look her up on Linked In, she says. Okay. Suffice to say, you didn’t land that job.

I know the feeling, working momma . . . you never know what’s coming out of that purse.